G Precious in our Spotlight Interview (Hip Hop, Pop)

Welcome to Indigenous in Music with Larry K, on this show we welcome back from New Mexico, singer, songwriter and Hip Hop performer, G Precious is in the house. Her new album is out entitled “Life.” New hip hop beats from the Ohkay Owingeh Nation.

G Precious, Blue Flamez, Shawnee, Jessica Hernandez and the Deltas, Sultan Of String, Juan Carlos Medrano, Morgan Toney, Emma Stevens, Rayos Laser, Daniela Spalla, iskwe, Nina Hagen, 1915, Auroara Leigh, Hannah Burge, Chantil Dukart, Amanda Rheaume, MATCITIM, Sinematic, Injunity, Logan Staats, Carsen Gray, Hataalii, Jim Jacobs, The City Lines, The Spiritual Warriors, Low Budget Rock Star, Midnight Sparrows, Pretendians Band, Johnny Ray Jones, Murray Porter and much much more.

Look around our site to find out all about us and our programs and visit our SAY Magazine Library with all our featured guests.

OUR INTERVIEW IS 30 MINUTES INTO THE PROGRAM

G PRECIOUS IN OUR SAY MAGAZINE FEATURE

G PRECIOUS “RISE”

CONTACT INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]
PHONE: (505) 927-945
WEBSITE: www.therealgprecious.com
SOUNDCLOUD: https://soundcloud.com/gprecious
YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/@GPrecious
INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/brenatenciosjp
BOOKING: [email protected]

G PRECIOUS BIOGRAPHY

G Precious born Brenda M. Atencio was raised on the Indian Reservation of Ohkay Owingeh – Village of the Strong (formerly San Juan Pueblo) by her grandmother Gregorita T. Atencio. The 2nd of 8 children, she began creative writing at the young age of 6, identifying herself as BMA Chill – part of a group known as Chill, Funky, Ice which included her cousin Jay Funky and her little brother GMT Ice. BMA Chill continued writing as a means to deal with the dynamics of life – alcoholism, drugs, depression, suicide, and abuse.

At the age of 12, BMA Chill became G Precious. With the deaths of her aunts Sandy and Rose, her older brother Ivan, and her grandmother, it proved difficult for G Precious to deal with their deaths as these were people who all had an influence on her life and were a part of her main support system growing up. Their deaths sparked a new flame pushing G Precious to return to the recording studio, complete and release her first album titled, “On My Shoulders.” This was the heartbreaking, long awaited debut album from G Precious, a Native American woman and upcoming Hip Hop, Pop, R&B Artist; she put her life, her heart, her family, her struggles, the courageous hope and healing process into this album.

     Since the release of “On My Shoulders” G Precious has released several additional albums titled: 

  • Hip Hop & Hotdogs Vol. 1 
  • Abomination 
  • Walk On Water – Evolution 
  • ECLECTIC 
  • Bow & Arrow Songs of Ohkay Owingeh (Traditional Album)
  • The Forgotten (featuring Grammy Award Winner Macy Gray)
  • LIFE

G Precious has been recognized, nominated and won several Music Awards spanning across the United States and World 

  • Indian Summer Music Award (Nominations 2016, 2017)
  • New Mexico Music Award Winner (Multiple Wins) 
  • Native American Music Award Winner (2023)
  • Summer Solstice Indigenous Music Award (Nominee 2023)
  • International Indigenous Hip Hop Award (Nominee 2023)

Her music is played on various radio stations and streaming services across the USA and Worldwide to include local stations – Singing Wire (UNM), Moccasin Wire (KTAO) and KUYI Hopi Radio out in Hopi, AZ.​

G Precious has proven that no matter the life you’ve lived, the struggles you’ve faced, with determination and positive thoughts nothing can stop you.

INDIGENOUS IN MUSIC WITH LARRY K AND G PRECIOUS

Jim Jacobs in our Spotlight Interview

Welcome to Indigenous in Music with Larry K, on this show we welcome from Six Nations of The Grand River, Ontario, country musician Jim Jacobs.  He currently holds the title for “Country Album of the Year” at this year’s SIMMA awards.  His new album is out and is entitled “That’s the way it Goes.” Indigenous County at its best. 

Enjoy music from Jim Jacobs, Ryan LittleEagle, Tom Frear, Ed Koban, Leanne Goose, Shawnee Kish, Jessican Hernandez and the Deltas, Aysanabee, Samantha Crain, Trent Agecoutay, Dustin Harder, Los Amigos Invisibles, Logan Staats, Devon Sants, 1915, Joyslam, Novalima, iskwe, Nina Hagen, G Precious, Richie Ledreagle, Levi Platero, Qacung, Latin Playboys, Eagle & Hawk, Cary Morin and much much more.

Look around our site to find out all about us and our programs and visit our SAY Magazine Library with all our featured guests.

OUR INTERVIEW IS 30 MINUTES INTO THE PROGRAM

JIM JACOBS IN OUR SAY MAGAZINE FEATURE (2023)

JIM JACOBS IN OUR SAY MAGAZINE FEATURE (2023)

JIM JACOBS IN OUR SAY MAGAZINE FEATURE (2017)

JIM JACOBS IN OUR SAY MAGAZINE FEATURE (2023)

JIM JACOBS – OVER FOR GOOD

CONTACT INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]
TEXT/PHONE: 615-400-6822
WEBSITE: jimjacobsmusic.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/jim.jacobs.946954
INSTAGRAM: http://www.instagram.com/jimjacobs5757
SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/track/4TzrUodBcudrT0deAzj2T6?si=hMj4NoepREKiNv2WYhIFKg

YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@jimjacobs9149
BOOKING: [email protected]

JIM JACOBS BIOGRAPHY

Jim Jacobs was born in the small town of Hagersville Ontario and raised in Smoothtown on the Six Nations of The Grand River. Jim grew up on his Grandparents Beef Cattle/ Cash Crop farm working as a team with his family throughout his childhood and teenage years listening to Country Legends George Jones, Merle Haggard, Waylon, Willie, and Conway just to name a few and learning their songs on the guitar along the way. No matter where he went there was always one of these guys on the radio. Jim was also heavily into sports playing Lacrosse, Hockey, and Football to which he decided to pursue football eventually getting a scholarship to Missouri Valley College and also playing a little Semi-pro. After injuries restricted him from playing further he returned home. Jim soon took up he’s love of writing and performing Country songs in the styles of the legends he always looked up to and being the dreamer he is eventually made a move to Nashville TN. While in Nashville Jim worked tirelessly in construction and transportation to earn a living learning some hard life lessons along the way performing occasionally at a few open mics and playing guitar for another artist. 

After a few years in Nashville, Jim met Mr. Robby Turner who would soon become one of his closest friends and began assisting him with other artists in the studio. 

It was in 2011 Jim got the worst news of his life as his Mother diagnosed with Cancer. Without hesitation Jim left Music City and moved home to help with anything his Mom needed. After winning a few battles over a couple years the disease had taken over and sadly Mrs. Isabel Jacobs had passed. 

Having been raised to never give up and always try his best by his parents and family, he decided it was time to start his own project and put all his time and energy into writing about the life lessons he learned, making many trips back to Nashville over the years to record with his friend Robby Turner on the Turner-Up Recording Label. 

Jim has always believed things happen for a reason, and that things happen when they are supposed to happen, and it is NOW! 

Doing his part in Keeping Country Country with a New Traditional Country sound, Jim has already been getting airplay in the USA and Canada and charting in the top 5 in Australia & UK and number 2 & 3 on the Canadian Indie Country Countdown for the first 2 singles “ Over For Good” and “Good Ole Country Boy”and Also winning his first award at the Summer Solstice Indigenous Music Awards taking home the Country Album of the year! 

Jim Jacobs is definitely breathing new life into a genre that’s become so repetitive that you can’t tell who’s who!  If you haven’t heard him yet you’re sure missing out

INDIGENOUS IN MUSIC FEATURED ARTIST JIM JACOBS

Carsen Gray in our Spotlight Interview (Pop)

Welcome to Indigenous in Music with Larry K, this week we welcome back after 6 long years, we welcome back from Haida Gwaii, British Columbia, Carsen Gray. Singer, songwriter, her new album is out this week and we get to help with the release, it’s entitled “Misadventures,” a nice acoustic pop mix.

Enjoy music from Carsen Gray, Shylah Ray Sunshine, Hataalii, Qacung, Irv Lyons Jr, Graeme Jonez, MATCITIM, Joyslam, Samantha Crain, Robert Mirabal, QVLN, The Halluci Nation, Jurassic 5, 2 Minute Break, Pretendians Band, Paul Star, Xit, The Northstars, Juan Luis Guerra, Aterciopelados, Whilk & Misky, Nortec: Bostich + Fussible, G Precious, Fedarro, Migize Nodin, Regan Tucker, Logan Staats, Julian Taylor and Darren Geffre.

Look around our site to find out all about us and our programs and visit our SAY Magazine Library with all our featured guests.

OUR INTERVIEW IS 30 MINUTES INTO THE PROGRAM

CARSEN GRAY IN OUR SAY MAGAZINE FEATURE (2023)

CARSEN GRAY IN OUR SAY MAGAZINE FEATURE (2023)

CARSEN GRAY IN OUR SAY MAGAZINE FEATURE (2017)

CARSEN GRAY IN OUR SAY MAGAZINE FEATURE (2017)

CARSEN GRAY – MISADVENTURES (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

CONTACT INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]
TEXT/PHONE: 639-998-0056
WEBSITE: www.CarsenGray.com
FACEBOOK: www.Facebook.com/realcarsengray
INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/iamcarsengray
BOOKING: [email protected]

CARSEN GRAY BIOGRAPHY

50 miles off the coast of mainland British Columbia, you’ll find Haida Gwaii. This collection of islands serves as home to just shy of 5,000 residents who all contribute to its quiet magic. Seemingly removed from the rest of the world, yet intrinsically connected to its rawest essence, Carsen Gray calls this place home. Born of Haida Indigenous and mixed descent, the award-winning singer and songwriter commutes the peace of her surroundings into a soulful sound spiked with pop universality and a twist of local spirit.

Growing up in Haida Gwaii, Carsen’s mother recognized her talent early on. During a trip to Ontario at nine-years-old, she recorded for the first time. Immediately, mom called her uncle Bobby Taylor who not only fronted Bobby Taylor & the Vancouvers, but also famously discovered, mentored, and produced The Jackson 5’s 1969 debut, Diana Ross Presents The Jackson 5, and the follow-up, ABC. Under Bobby’s wing, she performed around Vancouver. Among her fondest memories, he often sat down with her at the piano for hours on end, fostering her passion for gospel and soul.

Inspired by Motown icons as well as Céline Dion, Mariah Carey, and Alicia Keys, she cultivated a signature style of her own steeped in singer-songwriter tradition.

Turning heads, Carsen’s 2017 self-titled debut earned “Best New Artist” at SiriusXM’s Indigenous Music Awards, while 2018’s “Wanna See You” with JUNO Award-nominated DJ Shub received “Best Radio Single. Along the way, she performed on the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) and at JunoFest. During 2020, her single “Sah ‘Laana” and its intimate accompanying music video caught the attention of Nettwerk Music Group, and she signed to the label. Her music has received high praise from media outlets like COMPLEX, Exclaim!, PopWrapped, and Cowboys & Indians Magazine who named Carsen a “Next Native American Star.”

Throughout 2021, she assembled her debut EP Each Moment (2022), with her husband, primary collaborator, and producer Joey Stylez. After their kids fell asleep, they often recorded late into the night. “The driving force is gratitude,” she explains. “At this point in my life, I’m in a really good place… I thought about all of the things I’m grateful for and what I’ve been blessed with for my family, for the life I’ve built, and the creative space I have. Being home in Haida Gwaii, I had the opportunity to create at a Zen pace. We’re all born with a God-given gift. I believe I found mine with music. The project is reflective, because I’m talking about God, my partner, love, and home.”

In 2022, Carsen followed Each Moment with the Notes to Self EP, a six-song collection that touches on mental health and self-love through lush acoustics, sparse arrangements, and angelic vocals. According to Carsen, “Giving my listeners something that resonates deeply or gives a sense of hope and peace is always the focus when creating my music.” Since then, Carsen has been busy working on new music, set for release later this year.

CARSEN GRAY IN THE PRESS…

“Her soulful voice crosses the genres of R&B, Pop and Folk—she’s proven that she isn’t limiting herself into any specific box. Her musical talents are tied together with the spirit of her culture and community…”

COMPLEX

“…just unaffected talent and refreshing earnestness… the best soul-rebooting forest bathing with similarly healing musical accompaniment…”

Cowboys & Indians Magazine

“Dreamy with echoes, this song creates sounds and a message that’ll make you believe could reach someone who has departed from this earth.  Sung with gratitude, lovely and cathartic.”

 – Americana Highways

“There are some artists in the world that can just soothe you, need it be through their voice, their music or a combination of both. Carsen Gray is one such artist.”

PopWrapped

“…uplifting and organic songwriting style…”

Dusty Organ

CARSEN GRAY ON INDIGENOUS IN MUSIC WITH LARRY K

Indigenous Media Conference set for July 25-27, 2024 in Oklahoma

Indigenous Media Conference set for July 25-27, 2024 in Oklahoma City
Indigenous Journalists Association calls for conference program proposals through Feb. 2, 2024

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Indigenous Journalists Association (IJA) will host the Indigenous Media Conference (IMC), formerly known as the National Native Media Conference, at the Omni Hotel in Oklahoma City, July 25-27, 2024.

IJA’s board of directors voted unanimously in favor of Oklahoma City as its 2024 conference location to bring further awareness to the free press challenges facing tribal nations across the US, where only five of 574 federally recognized tribes have adopted free press protections for their independent media outlets.

“I am thrilled IJA will be returning to Oklahoma, and for the first time to Oklahoma City. Being in the heart of Indian Country for the first time with our new name will be powerful, where Indigenous media outlets are leading the way with tribal press freedoms. As we enter this next chapter, I look forward to what IJA can help revive, strengthen, and build upon within our international Indigenous journalism community, and what better place for that than Oklahoma,” said Christine Trudeau, IJA President.

The annual three-day conference is returning to Oklahoma for the third time in its history, with past conferences held in Tulsa in 1989 and 2006.

“Oklahoma is home to 39 federally recognized tribes. There is so much to learn from the distinctive media landscape within the state and I’m looking forward to a phenomenal conference program that highlights the unique challenges and joys that come with reporting on our Indigenous communities here,” said Rebecca Landsberry-Baker, IJA Executive Director.

Call For Proposals
IJA is now accepting program proposals for the 2024 Indigenous Media Conference through Feb. 2, 2024. IJA will facilitate breakout sessions and workshops to support and enhance the knowledge and skills of journalists covering Indigenous communities. To submit a program proposal, members should review and complete the submission form.
Credit: Nadya Kwandibens, Red Works Photography Pitch Proposals For branding opportunities, sponsored sessions or questions about the 2024 Indigenous Media Expo, email: [email protected]. About the
Indigenous Journalists AssociationThe Indigenous Journalists Association’s mission is centered on the idea that accurate and contextual reporting about Indigenous people and communities is necessary to overcome biases and stereotypes portrayed in popular and mainstream media. Expanding access to accurate news and information is essential to an informed citizenry and healthy democracy, across tribal, local, state and national levels.

For more than 40 years, Indigenous journalists across the United States and Canada have worked to support and sustain IJA. Originally formed as the Native American Press Association in 1983, the organization has grown from just a handful of reporters to a membership of nearly 900, which includes Indigenous journalists, associates, educators and partners. 

JIMMY PAGE INDUCTS HIS HERO LINK WRAY INTO THE ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME

IT DOESN’T GET BETTER THAN THIS…

JIMMY PAGE INDUCTS HIS HERO LINK WRAY

 INTO THE ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME

 

11/3/2023, Brooklyn, New York – One of the world’s greatest guitarists, Jimmy Page, gave a surprise presentation and tribute performance at the 38th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction ceremony for his “hero” the legendary guitarist Link Wray (Shawnee). Held at Barclays Center in New York on Friday night, Page’s onscreen prerecorded presentaton was followed by a surprise live tribute performance and rendition of Wray’s classic instrumental, “Rumble.”   This was reportedly Page’s first public performance in a decade.

The now 69 year old lead guitarist of Led Zeppelin recalled hearing Wray’s classic instrumental “Rumble” for the first time when he was 14 year’s old.  Page recalled, “The vigor in it. The strength in it. The power in it. This was something else. It was fearless. It was just phenomenal. It was the essence of cool. Its just a masterpiece that sort of melted its way into the fibers of my body and my consciousness.”

Link Wray’s eldest children were in attendance, Beth Wray Webb and Link Wray III who met Page after the performance and exchanged their mutual respect and admiration for each other. Beth’s two sons, Chris and Tommy are also musicians and coincidentally were also influenced by Page’s work in Zeppelin.

Fred Lincoln “Link” Wray, Jr., was born on May 2, 1929, in Dunn, North Carolina. Link Wray was of Shawnee heritage. While his family suffered racial discrimination due to their Native American background, Wray later honored his heritage in songs like “Comanche”, “Apache” and “Shawnee.”   Wray continued recording and performing well into his seventies until his death on November 5, 2005. 

pictured above are l-r Beth Wray Webb, Jimmy Page, Link Wray III

In 2008, Link Wray was inducted into the Native American Music Hall of Fame presented by musician Steven Van Zandt with a tribute performance held by Wray’s grandson Chris Webb and Native American guitarist Gary SmalI. In 2017, the documentary, “Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked The World,” was released and Link Wray received his second nomination for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Page said that Link Wray had a “real rebel attitude” and credits him in the documentary, “It Might Get Loud”  as a major influence in his early career. In 2021, Rolling Stone named Link Wray as one of their top 100 Greatest Guitarists. Link Wray’s music continues to be heard on radio and in numerous films and TV shows, such as; “Pulp Fiction,” “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind,” “Blow,” “Desperado,” “Independence Day”, “The Fabelmans” “Poker Face,” “Father Stu” and “Reservation Dogs”.

Link Wray’s daughter, Beth, expressed; “We were in tears watching Jimmy Page’s tribute performance. Dad would be so honored and humbled to receive this special recognition.” See the full presentation below.

(l-r Link III, Link Wray and Beth Wray Webb)

JIMMY PAGE’S FULL INDUCTION SPEECH ON LINK WRAY

The Vigor in it.  The Strength in it. The Power in it. ..  It’s just a masterpiece that sort of melted its way into the fibers of my body and my consciousness

“I’m really proud and honored to induct Link Wray into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. If ever there was a guitarist to deserve this. If ever there was a guitarist who changed people’s attitude to what they heard, its Link Wray.

I first heard Link Wray’s music by the Rumble and it was when I was 14 years old. It wasn’t necessarily the sort of music that was being played on the BBC radio.  But I heard it through a jukebox. The first time I heard it I remember listening to it with such awe because I thought what is this?

In those days there were many guitar instrumentals but as a 14 year old kid barely playing the guitar, it really had an effect on me. The Vigor in it.  The Strength in it. The Power in it.  There was something else,  It was fearless. It was just phenomenal. It’s the essence of cool.  It’s just a masterpiece that just sort of melted its way into the fibers of my body and my consciousness, as far as the drama that you can set up with six strings. Its the sort of stuff that can’t be taught. It’s the sort of stuff that you feel and you can take it on board if you like it.

I’m really thrilled and honored to be the one to be able to induct Link Wray, my hero, into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.” –    JIMMY PAGE, November 3rd, 2023

WATCH THE ENTIRE LINK WRAY INDUCTION BY CLICKING THIS VIDEO LINK:

For Interviews with Link Wray’s eldest daughter, Beth Wray Webb, please email us at [email protected].

Carnegie Hall Performance On The Way For Opaskwayak Cree Nation Classical Singer, Rhonda Head – November 13

Rhonda Head

INDIGENOUS SINGER-SONGWRITER RHONDA HEAD RETURNS TO CARNEGIE HALL WITH FLIN FLON COMMUNITY CHOIR

Rhonda Head, award-winning vocalist from Opaskwayak Cree Nation

November 2, 2023 – The Flin Flon Community Choir, renowned for their mesmerizing vocal performances, is making a triumphant return to Carnegie Hall in New York City on November 13 with 16-time international award-winning vocalist Rhonda Head joining the ensemble. This marks their third time gracing the legendary Carnegie Hall stage and promises to be a memorable evening of music and culture.

The Flin Flon Community Choir, hailing from the picturesque town of Flin Flon in Manitoba, has made a name for themselves through their exceptional vocal harmonies and dedication to musical excellence. Their journey to Carnegie Hall is a remarkable one, beginning with their debut at Lincoln Centre and followed by their previous successful performance at Carnegie Hall, which resonated with audiences and critics alike. The choir’s commitment to delivering extraordinary musical experiences has consistently drawn them to prestigious international stages.

Rhonda Head, an Indigenous singer-songwriter of Cree heritage from Opaskwayak Cree Nation, is set to join the Flin Flon Community Choir for this special performance. Head, who has been celebrated for her powerful and soulful voice, brings a unique blend of Indigenous influences to the stage. Her collaboration with the choir promises to be a harmonious fusion of musical talent and cultural richness.

Head shared her excitement about the upcoming performance and collaboration with the Flin Flon Community Choir at Carnegie Hall: “Choral music is such a beautiful illustration of how people from different cultures and walks of life can come together to create something harmonious and beautiful. I am honoured to stand on the illustrious stage of Carnegie Hall with the Flin Flon Community Choir.”

This event is particularly exciting as it features the choir as part of a larger, international ensemble premiering a new composition titled the “Twilight Mass.” This piece is the creation of Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo, a world-renowned name in the realm of choral music. The performance will be conducted by Jonathan Griffith, the artistic director of Distinguished Concerts International New York (DCINY), a prestigious organization that has been a frequent collaborator with the Flin Flon Community Choir.

The “Twilight Mass” is a magnificent and evocative composition that promises to take audiences on an extraordinary musical journey. Its world premiere at Carnegie Hall, with the Flin Flon Community Choir in the spotlight, is an event that is sure to leave a lasting impact on all those in attendance.

The Flin Flon Community Choir, known for their community-driven approach and passion for bringing culture to the forefront, is proud to represent Flin Flon, Manitoba, and Indigenous voices on this prestigious stage. Rhonda Head’s participation adds an extra layer of cultural significance to this performance, showcasing the harmonious blending of diverse artistic traditions.

Crystal Kolt, the director of the Flin Flon Community Choir, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming performance, emphasizing the significance of the international collaboration:

“As we return to Carnegie Hall for the third time, the excitement is immeasurable. Our choir has always been about community and extending our musical family far beyond Flin Flon. This international collaboration, which includes the remarkable talents of Indigenous singer-songwriter Rhonda Head, is a testament to the power of music to connect people from different corners of the world. It’s always a joy to meet and harmonize with fellow choristers from around the globe, and together with Rhonda, we’ll create an unforgettable night of music and cultural exchange.”

Tickets for this memorable evening are available through the Carnegie Hall Box Office and online at www.carnegiehall.org
 

– 30 – 

For more information and media inquiries, please contact:

Jane Puchniak | JPPR
[email protected] | 204-951-7727

___
 

About the Flin Flon Community Choir: The Flin Flon Community Choir is a dynamic ensemble of vocalists hailing from Flin Flon, Manitoba, Canada. They are known for their commitment to musical excellence and community engagement. The choir has earned recognition for its previous performances at prestigious international venues and collaborations with world-class artists.

About Rhonda Head: 16-time international award-winning Mezzo-Soprano vocalist Rhonda Head is from Opaskwayak Cree Nation in northern Manitoba. These awards add to her lengthy list of milestones including singing at New York’s Carnegie Hall (2016, 2023) and Lincoln Center (2014). Rhonda acts as a Board Member at Canada’s largest rights management organization, SOCAN. As a member of the American Recording Academy, she is also an ongoing jury member for the GRAMMY Awards in the regional roots category. Rhonda released her fourth full-length album Waniska this September. The album’s title, Waniska, means to rise up or awaken in the Cree language marking the emotional and spiritual sentiments weaved through the music and the lyrics. The album is a dedication to Rhonda’s late brother, Chris, and her journey of experiencing loss and finding happiness once again.

About Carnegie Hall: Carnegie Hall is one of the most iconic and prestigious venues in the world, located in the heart of New York City. It has hosted countless legendary performances and continues to be a symbol of artistic excellence and cultural enrichment.

Pretendians Band in our Spotlight Interview (Rock)

Welcome to Indigenous in Music with Larry K, on this show we welcome from Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Pretendians Band, founding members Thomas and Christine, lead singer and drummer, will be in the house.  One of Minnesota’s finest rock bands.  They’re new album is out and it’s called “Stories From the Fire,” a nice mix of Indigenous Rock.  Enjoy music by Pretendians Band, Xit, Blue Mountain Tribe, Aysanabee, Morgan Toney, Bluedog, Johnny Ray Jones, Latin Vibe, Thunderhand Joe and the Medicine Show, Wolfsheart, Jose Feliciano, Hataalii, Graeme Jonez, Janet Panic, Soleil Launiere, Adrian Sutherland, Carsen Gray, Zoe, Yogui, Obie P, Shawnee Kish, Locos Por Juana, B-Side Players, Love to Bleed, Wayne Lavallee, Tom Bee and much much more.

Look around our site to find out all about us and our programs and visit our SAY Magazine Library with all our featured guests.

OUR INTERVIEW IS 30 MINUTES INTO THE PROGRAM

PRETENDIANS BAND IN OUR SAY MAGAZINE FEATURE

SAY MAGAZINE FEATURED ARTIST THE PRETENDIANS BAND
SAY MAGAZINE FEATURED ARTIST THE PRETENDIANS BAND

PRETENDIANS BAND “ART IS” MINNEAPOLIS PBS

Thomas Draskovic, Čhetán Ohítika (Brave Hawk) is an enrolled member of the Standing Rock Reservation in South Dakota, and is Húnkpapa Lakhóta and Wahpé Khúte Dakhóta. He is the lead vocalist of the all native band Pretendians. ART IS…, is a multi-media and events series aimed at bringing visibility to emerging and established artists in Minnesota. The program showcases artists work and gives artists an opportunity to share their inspiration in their own words.

CONTACT INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]
TEXT: 612-800-1699
WEBSITE: www.pretendiansband.com
FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/pretendiansband
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/pretendiansband
BANDCAMP: https://pretendians.bandcamp.com
BOOKING:
[email protected]

PRETENDIANS BAND BIOGRAPHY

Pretendians Band is a 4-piece Native American rock band that calls Northeast Minneapolis,
Minnesota home. In their own words, “Despite the name of our band, we are not pretending a
thing.” The majority of the band represent the Oceti Ŝakowiŋ (7 Council Fires) of the Dakhota/Lakhota
Nation, hailing from and enrolled with the Standing Rock, Rosebud, and Crow Creek tribes of
South Dakota.

Most of the band’s songs have a societal and political viewpoint, told from a modern
Indigenous perspective, touching on topics about racial profiling to the Native homeless crisis in
Minneapolis, songs about their Dakota ancestors, and many modern Indigenous-centric topics.
Formed in 2014, Pretendians Band draws inspiration from a wide range of rock influences
and has crafted their unique brand of rock music by joining it with indigenous-centric lyrics, told
from a modern Indigenous perspective. The group has made a name for themselves by infusing
their music with a modern indigenous perspective, crafting a dynamic and energy-fueled brand
of conscious rock music.​

At the heart of Pretendians Band’s music is a commitment to celebrating their indigeneity,
history, and most importantly sharing and telling their viewpoint on the challenges and
opportunities presented by the modern world.  

Obstacles/Challenges
“The challenges that we face are unique to being a Native American band. It’s as if we have two
different audiences: We have our Native American/Indigenous audience that we adore, where
we play community events and Indigenous-centric shows. We want to be known to Native
audiences – Being able to bring people together using music as the medium is what we set out
to do. We adore our Native audience.“ Pretendians Band has seen rapid fan growth, especially over the past couple of years.

“The other side to that is that we also play around the Twin Cities metro area within our local
bar scene, which is mainly a Caucasian audience. Show after show and one by one we are
delivering our Native ancestry and message to as many people as we can. And they support us
and are showing up at our Native community shows. And we love it.”

What’s in a Name?
Another challenge that the band faces is the name of the band: Pretendians Band.

The word ‘pretendian’ as any Native/Indigenous person will tell you, is an offensive term.
People who are considered ‘pretendians’ are usually Caucasian folks, who appropriate and
poorly imitate Native culture by wearing headdresses, carrying tomahawks, infringing upon,
and abusing Native spiritual beliefs and falsely claiming to be of Native descent when they are
not. “As a Native American band, we speak out against the appropriation of our culture, of our
history, of our image. Our lyrics speak to that, and it becomes clear that we are against non-
genuine images of our culture.“

“The word ‘pretendian’ itself, brings up a lot of issues for Native people. It’s offensive to hear
about non-Native people trying to step into and to try to represent us when they have no
business being in that space to begin with.” So then, why did a group of actual Native American musicians name their band ‘Pretendians Band’? Initially, deciding to call the band ‘Pretendians Band’ was an inside joke and the mere thought of it was an absolutely stupidly funny idea to the members.
“Ask any band and they’ll almost always tell you that coming up with a band name is probably
one of the harder thing to do as a group.” “At first, we tossed around a bunch of different possible names.“ First, it was ‘Wagon Burners’. It was taken, so Nope. Then, it was ‘The Four Skins’. Stupid and DEFINITELY Nope! Then it was ‘The Dead Injuns’. “We were initially set on calling ourselves ‘The Dead Injuns’. But then our guitarist, Al Googled it to see if it was already in use, and yes – It was in use already by a group of “racist, southern rednecks”. So, nope!”….

“Then someone said, “Hey, wouldn’t it be funny if we called the band ‘pretendians’?” It was so
stupidly funny and inane at the time. And at that time we weren’t playing out much, so we
didn’t have any audience whatsoever, let alone an awesome Native audience that we have
now.” After many heated conversations about it amongst the members of the group, it was definitely
a conversation worth having.

“There seems to be many misunderstanding about how you express yourself as an indigenous
person. What or who is considered a ‘pretendian’? How do we judge who is or who is not a
pretendian? Do we base those judgements on our preconceived notions of white colonists? Or
of our own people?”

“Pretendians Band is here because we are not pretending anything. We are living our truth as
Indigenous people based on our life experiences and by telling our own stories, which may not
fit into the common ignorant narrative put forth by people who may not want the truth; those
same people who tried to exterminate us.”

What’s in a name? Names aren’t the end-all-be-all. At the end of the day what is important is
knowing and understanding what something is and what it represents, not what its label is.
Pretendians Band is certainly not pretending to be Indians. They are the real deal.
“After all is said and done, we have been well received within our Native community. We
absolutely adore our Native audience. We are asked to play at many Native-based shows in
Minnesota and beyond. In August of 2022 we performed at a Native American music festival
called Tribalpalooza in Yakima, Washington. Our music is played regularly on Native radio
programs locally and across the country. Our music has been nominated for the Native
American Music Awards several times. We were even featured in a local TPT television short
called ‘Art Is’.”​ Check them out and see for yourself! Pretendians Band just released their second album called ‘Stories from the Fire’. Their music can be found on all streaming platforms.

Pretendians Band is:
Thomas Draskovic – Lyricist, Singer, Rhythm Guitar
Al Grande – Lead Guitar
Jilleo Candyhands – Bass
Christine Bartyzal – Drummer

INDIGENOUS IN MUSIC WITH LARRY K AND THE PRETENDIANS BAND

Logan Staats in our Spotlight Interview (Folk)

Welcome to Indigenous in Music with Larry K, this week we welcome from the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, Logan Staats will be in the spotlight.  Singer, songwriter and performer. His new album is out, “A Light in the Attic” a nice mix a Indigenous Folk tunes. 

Enjoy music from Logan Staats, Dustin Harder, Hataalii, Soda Stereo, Link Wray & His Ray Men, Qacung, Irv Lyons Jr. Morgan Toney, Latin Vibe, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Pure Fe, Michael Bucher, CHANCES, Centavrvs, Raye Zaragoza, Melody McArthur, Ozomatli, Jota Quest, Elastic Bond, Siibii, Natalia Clavier, Ana Tijoux, Joey Stylez, Dj Shub, Northern Cree Singers, The Spiritual Warriors, Matiu, Nathan Cunningham, Rellik, Cary Morin and much more.

Look around our site to find out all about us and our programs and visit our SAY Magazine Library with all our featured guests.

OUR INTERVIEW IS 30 MINUTES INTO THE PROGRAM

LOGAN STAATS IN OUR SAY MAGAZINE FEATURE

SAY MAGAZINE FEATURED ARTIST LOGAN STAATS
SAY MAGAZINE FEATURED ARTIST LOGAN STAATS

CONTACT INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]
WEBSITE:
www.loganstaats.ca
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/loganstaatsofficial
INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/logan_staats

SOUNDCLOUD: https://soundcloud.com/logan-staats
BOOKING: [email protected]

YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/@LStaats

LOGAN STAATS – LIVE AT STATION UNION GREAT HALL

LOGAN STAATS

INDIGENOUS IN MUSIC FEATURED GUEST LOGAN STAATS

BIOGRAPHY

In 2018, veracious Mohawk singer-songwriter Logan Staats was chosen from 10,000 hopeful contestants vying for a spot on musical competition show The Launch. Before an audience of 1.4 million viewers, Staats won, officiating the breakthrough that would lead him to Nashville and Los Angeles, and to his single “The Lucky Ones” winning the Indigenous Music Award for Best Radio Single. “The Lucky Ones” also occupied #1 in Canada.

In the years between now and then, Staats has come home, making the intentional decision to re-root at Six Nations of the Grand River. “I wanted to bring my songwriting back to the medicine inside of music, to the medicine inside of reclamation,” he says following a phase of constant travel and intensity. He’s been working away on his forthcoming album, A Light in the Attic, ever since.

To Staats, music is a healing salve, contemplatively composed and offered to listeners in need of comfort. Since returning home, Staats has been able to create music authentically again, reclaiming his sound through honest storytelling and unvarnished, sometimes painful reflection.

The songs on A Light in the Attic represent the sparks of an emboldening journey. Staats sings of reconciliation, of recovery from addiction, of surviving intergenerational trauma, and of convalescence after heartbreak.

Lead single “Deadman” was written during Staats’ recovery. It’s a song of dual meanings, illuminating not only romantic love, but a salvaged love for life itself. As Staats’ ancestors were residential school survivors, the video for “Deadman” was partially filmed on the property of the Mohawk Institute, a former residential school in Brantford, Ont. (The Six Nations of the Grand River has since called for that location to be among grounds searched for remains.) The video follows Staats through his community, including Land Back Lane, where Six Nations land defenders have mobilized to protect the area from proposed subdivision development.

On the tear-jerking “California”, Staats sings of romantic agony and failed grand gestures. “It’s so sad and so dramatic,” he says, “but it’s a true story.”

With what could be an antidote to the heartache of “California”, “Wish I Knew Your Name” tells the story of Staats getting a ride from an elder when he was a kid. After he got in the car, he realized the woman’s husband’s ashes were along for the trip. It scared him at the time, but he’s come to view that moment as formative. “Of all the songs I’ve written, this one is my favourite,” says Staats. “It’s about un-definitive, enduring love.”

Staats’ love of home is at the heart of A Light in the Attic. An evocative testament to rock’s cathartic spirit, the album was recorded with borrowed microphones at Staats’ apartment, at Six Nations recording studio Jukasa, and at downtown Brantford’s Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts, which was entirely empty due to pandemic-related lockdown measures. “My nation and my community are in every chord I play and every note I sing,” says Staats. “They’ve saved me.”

Counting musical icon Buffy Sainte-Marie, for whom Staats has opened, among his mentors, Staats wants to pay forward the guidance he’s received from his own community by connecting with Indigenous youth through music. He frequently leads workshops and visits local schools. “I want them to know there’s a reason to keep going,” he says.

A Light in the Attic is proof of that reason. Says Staats, “there is a way out of the dark.”

INDIGENOUS IN MUSIC FEATURED GUEST LOGAN STAATS

Hataalii in our Spotlight Interview (Indigenous Rock)

Welcome to Indigenous in Music with Larry K, this week we welcome from Window Rock, Arizona, Mr. Hataalii is in our house. Singer, Songwriter, and Poet. His new album is out entitled “Singing Into Darkness,” a nice mix of Indigenous Rock. Read all about him on our music page at https://www.indigenousinmusicandarts.org/past-shows/hataalii.

Enjoy music from Hataalii, Sinuupa, nehiyawak, Tribalistas, The Tao Of Groove, Litefoot, Q052, Latin Vibe, 1915, Tracy Lee Nelson, Burnstick, Tracy Bone, Shauit, Socalled, Shylah Ray Sunshine, Toia, Gato Barbieri, Joy Harjo, Alan Syliboy & The Thundermakers, Dan Linitie, Brian Davey, Celeigh Cardinal, Crystal Shawanda, Graeme Jonez, Logan Staats, Chantil Dukart, Carsen Gray, The Spiritual Warriors and much more.

Look around our site to find out all about us and our programs and visit our SAY Magazine Library with all our featured guests.

OUR INTERVIEW IS 30 MINUTES INTO THE PROGRAM

PRETENDIANS BAND IN OUR SAY MAGAZINE FEATURE

SAY MAGAZINE FEATURED ARTIST HATAATII
SAY MAGAZINE FEATURED ARTIST HATAATII

HATAALII – MIDNIGHT SOLDIER

CONTACT INFORMATION

EMAIL:  [email protected]
INSTAGRAM:  www.instagram.com/hataalii_/

HATAALII

INDIGENOUS IN MUSIC FEATURED GUEST HATAALII

BIOGRAPHY

The music that 20-year-old Hataałiinez Wheeler makes as Hataałii does not sound like the work of someone born into the information age, coping with meme overload and social media omnipresence. Instead, there’s a simultaneously refreshing and suffocating sense of space, a dense and foreboding anticipation filling the air where a more insecure artist might try to squeeze in competing melodies and phrases. As Hataałii explains it: “Growing up in the desert, you’re surrounded by long roads with lots of nothingness in the atmosphere. Over the horizon, you can very easily scope the tilt of the roads and developing rainclouds. It gives you an almost 4D mindset.”

On his Dangerbird Records debut Singing Into Darkness, Hataałii crafts jangly garage rock for gothic cowboys and beat-poetry odysseys for landlocked surfers, infused with linguistic ambition that recalls Jack Kerouac’s highway fantasias, Allen Ginsberg’s conspiratorial mutterings, and David Berman’s indelible way of assembling a colloquial vocabulary into a thing of beauty. These tales are delivered with a purposeful and idiosyncratic diction, Hataałii’s words never merely sung but drawled, barked, spat, crooned, moaned, spilt, caterwauled, and vomited. He plays every instrument on the recording, providing the ideal loose-but-tight backing as he reacts to his own vocal performances with delicacy, warmth, and, when necessary, menace.

Raised in Window Rock, AZ, the capital of Navajo Nation —his nickname is, fittingly,a Navajo term that means “to sing” —Hataałii grew up surrounded by both his father’s New Order and The Cure records as well as the customary country music of the American southwest (Hataałii cites Charley Pride and Glen Campbell as favorites). He learned bass as an early teen but really dove into songwriting during his time at boarding school, holing up in his dorm and striving to write a song every day, inspired by classic rock fascinations like Lou Reed, Paul Westerberg, and Jim Morrison as well as cult legends like Alan Vega, Rodriguez, and Lizzy Mercier Descloux.

From these dorm room demos, he was able to record 2019’s Banana Boy, a portrait of an artist finding a solipsistic style all their own. Word-of-mouth and online interest swelled, and he followed Banana Boy with 2020’s Painting Portraits —which added shoegaze and bossa nova to his sonic arsenal —and followed that with 2021’s Hataałii. Hataałiinot only got notices from press outlets like Aquarium Drunkard (who praised it as “weirdly genreless and out-of-time, yet constantly reaching for some sort of cosmic agency” and called Hataałi “a master at conjuring a kind of Southwestern saudade”) but also a podcast shout-out from Mac DeMarco, a modern hero for any aspiring DIY musician. He followed that record with a pair of singles: the wistful, evocative waltz “Land of Poor Chance,” and cheeky ballad “Presidents Got Me All Night,” which FLOOD praised as a “euphoric-slacker ballad tapping into Bob Dylan’s most unpredictable vocal zones.” The flow of new music continued with a recent surprise drop of some bedroom recordings to clear the decks.

This all set the stage for Hataałii to put together Singing Into Darkness, a record about, as Hataałii eloquently puts it, “the shit that fucks with people in a bad way: an observer’s take on the vices and foibles that obstruct people’s lives.” The characters inhabiting these songs —local Navajo politicians, unknowable gas station regulars, John Wayne-worshiping tourists —are tragically mundane, beset with human flaws and outsized feelings and penchants for non-sequitur. Says Hataałii: “Humanity constantly thinks it’s on the verge of apocalypse, and they have reason to. But, sometimes, if there’s a sense of impending doom, the doom can just be yours —it’s hard to tell the difference.”

A sense of treachery and winking deviance haunts these songs. Album opener “Midnight Soldier” is hefty with a barren desert ambience, Hataalii snarling as he plays off the music’s accelerating tensions and ribbons of fluttering guitar as he embarks on a doom spiral that’s part Television, part Jonathan Richman. On its face, the liquid guitar tones and shuffling rhythms of “Laugh Out Loud” suggest the effervescence of a long-awaited backyard kickback. However, its lyrics marvel at the peculiar ordeal of growing up, a process that Hataałii describes as “like dodging encampments of cannibal battalions and trudging through the dizzying swirls of fast paced up-bringing only to come out feeling like just another pawn in a larger and more terrifyingly theatric-seeming circus of horror.”

The themes maintain a heaviness throughout, though Hataałii knows to serve them up with coy subversion and dramatic pacing. “Story Of Francisco” is a shambolic, lonesome country strummer about the sting of grief and the random cruelties of life (as Hataałii explains: “the universe knows what it’s doing when it does a really horrible thing”). The Velvets-cribbing “For Liquor” ponders Navajo suffering and the unsatisfactory salve of historical context, while the snapping and seductive “Council Delegates Wife” finds Hataałii delving mischievously into local politics. Meanwhile, the album-closing epic “Double Doors” sets up a cinematic showdown worthy of the bleakest spaghetti Western, between Navajo locals and terrifying tourists, demanding a dream catcher and a photo opp. In its deliberate build and wiry sonics, “Double Doors” is reminiscent of Modest Mouse’s Isaac Brock condemning commercial development on the late 90s classic Lonesome Crowded West—an artist casting the banal machinations of capital as a grandiose cosmic struggle.

Despite the heady themes, the songs on Singing Into Darknessare conjured not with heavy-handedness but an evocative text and imaginative presentation. Given Hataałii’s youth, it’s hard to imagine that he’s intentionally constructing music in homage to all the disparate artists —Gun Club, Cat Power, Destroyer, X, Ought, The Cramps —his music can recall. But it’s clear that Hataałii has a sophisticated understanding of the imagistic language and mythological underpinnings of the best rock and roll music. With Singing Into Darkness, Hataałii’s intuition sharpens into a visceral and inquisitive, yet artfully obfuscated, sense of focus —a special rock songwriting talent challenging himself to excel within the form

INDIGENOUS IN MUSIC FEATURED GUEST HATAALII

ACCLAIMED ALASKAN INUIT GROUP PAMYUA TO HEADLINE THE FIRST EVER LOS ANGELES GLOBAL MUSIC FESTIVAL

EVER LOS ANGELES GLOBAL MUSIC FESTIVAL
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2023,

PRESENTED BY THE RESONANCE COLLECTIVE AND NUMINOUS MUSIC

LOS ANGELES, CA – Alaska’s highly acclaimed Inuit musical group Pamyua, will make their Los Angeles
concert debut when they headline the inaugural Los Angeles Global Music Festival, taking place on
Saturday, September 9th at the First Congregational Church of Los Angeles. Presented by The
Resonance Collective and Numinous Music, the day-long Festival will feature a celebration of diverse
cultures through musical performance. Pamyua will also offer an interactive Yup’ik dance workshop
earlier in the day, where they will teach drum-dance songs and choreography seen in Yup’ik ceremonies.
The Festival will include a local opening act representing a culturally spiritual tradition as well as an
adjoining series of workshops to be announced later in the summer. The First Congregational Church of
Los Angeles is located at 540 S. Commonwealth Ave., near Koreatown. Pamyua is known for their compelling, interactive performances that blend the traditional Inuit songs and drum dances of their Yup’ik/Black ancestors with contemporary soul and R&B, often referred to as “tribal funk” or “Inuit soul.” Their unique style and sound derives from combining traditional melodies with contemporary vocalization and instrumentation. Their concerts showcase the indigenous Inuit cultural traditions and stories of their bi-racial heritage through music and ceremony passed down through the generations.
The Global Music Festival extends the Resonance Collective and Numinous Music’s mission to highlight
historically neglected cultural and spiritual practices through art and music. The Festival will present
sacred music and dance from around the world, celebrating both the differences and similarities found
in these practices.

No group better emphasizes this ethos than Pamyua, described as “one of the 10 greatest Alaska artists of the millennium” by Alaska Magazine. Founded by brothers and Yup’ik/Black artists Phillip and
Qacung Blanchett, Pamyua expresses the ceremonies and culture of the Yup’ik through a modern lens,
incorporating popular music and dance into their performances, yet staying true to their Inuit heritage.
At a time when diversity and inclusion are more important than ever, Pamyua is bringing the music and
culture of Indigenous people to the forefront of mainstream entertainment, through their musical
contributions to such shows as ABC’s “Alaska Daily” with Hilary Swank, Nat Geo’s Emmy-winning “Life
Below Zero: First Alaskans,” and Discovery Channel’s “Flying Wild Alaska.” The group’s music and
videos are now also featured in the Library of Congress’ permanent national archive in the Library’s
American Folklife Center.

“We are deeply committed to honoring cultural identity. It is a privilege for us to contribute to the
cultural community, sharing the richness and uniqueness of Indigenous culture and experiences. As
artists, we celebrate the joyous spirit of our Inuit heritage, showcasing the music, dance, and ancestral
traditions that define us,” says Phillip Blanchett, co-founder of Pamyua. “Participating in this event
offers us a wonderful opportunity to share the captivating stories of our Yup’ik heritage with diverse
audiences in Los Angeles. We work to foster meaningful understanding and respect for cultural diversity, inspire unity, and strengthen the bonds that connect us all.” “The Resonance Collective’s mission is to explore how artists from different cultural perspectives re-invent how we define sacred music today,” says Fahad Siadat, artistic director of the Resonance Collective. “A cosmopolitan city like LA deserves more opportunities to celebrate music from around the world, and we are happy to provide a festival experience where attendees can experience these fantastic performances as well as learn about the traditions first-hand.” “Los Angeles currently does not have such a festival and has not had one for a while now,” adds Craig S. Hyman, co-producer and curator of the Festival. “It is a city of deep cultural and ethnic roots with a fantastic history, so very diverse throughout, and it is underserved and largely unnoticed by the general public as a whole. It is profoundly important that people know and embrace these various cultures that we live side by side with, and in turn realize how we are all one and in this together.”

The Festival will take place at the First Congregational Church of Los Angeles (FCCLA), a thriving hub for exciting musical experiences. In recent years, FCCLA has hosted and presented concerts by the HEAR NOW Music Festival, Monday Evening Concerts, LACMA, and Ambient Church, featuring musical artists such as opera singer Davoné Tines, electronic musician Suzanne Ciani, organist Sarah Davachi, the Musica Angelica Baroque Orchestra, and Pulitzer-Prize winner Raven Chacon. As a part of FCCLA’s
commitment to the arts and social justice, the community enjoys hosting diverse voices who bring new
artistic perspectives to important cultural topics.

Tickets for the Festival start at $35 and are available now at bit.ly/lagmf2023 . For more information
about the event, please visit resonancecollective.org. To learn more about Pamyua, visit pamyuamedia.com.

CALENDAR EDITORS PLEASE NOTE:
THE LOS ANGELES GLOBAL MUSIC FESTIVAL 2023
Who: Pamyua; local act TBA
When: Saturday, September 9, 2023; workshops start at 3pm, doors open at 7pm
Where: First Congregational Church of Los Angeles; 540 South Commonwealth Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90020

#

Pamyua is Alaska’s most famous Inuit band. Their performances honor and share indigenous Inuit
cultural traditions and stories of their bi-racial heritage through music and ceremony passed down
through generations. The group’s compelling performances blend traditional Inuit drum/dance melodies
and songs of their ancestors with contemporary R&B and soul music, often referred to as “tribal funk” or “Inuit soul.”

Pamyua showcases Inuit culture internationally through their music and dance concerts, sharing their
indigenous knowledge and history. Their unique style and sound derives from combining traditional
melodies with contemporary vocalizations and instrumentation, paired with traditional dances and the
artful inclusion of symbolic, native masks.

Founded by brothers Phillip and Qacung Blanchett, the group includes Ossie Kairaiuak and frequent
guest members. The band is proud to represent indigenous culture, and believes music and dance
create unity. Together, each member masterfully interprets the Inuit traditions with joy and sincerity.
The response to their message is tremendous and the group is a symbol of pride for Alaska’s indigenous people and all who see them perform.

Pamyua was recently commissioned by the Library of Congress to provide a music video for the Library’s special “Homegrown Concert Series” in the Library’s American Folklife Center and permanent video archive. The concert video and group’s oral history is now online, free to the public to view anytime.
Pamyua is also busy bringing the indigenous sounds of Alaska to television. They made two special
appearances performing their original music live on ABC-TV’s recent hit series “Alaska Daily,” starring
Oscar winner Hilary Swank. They also scored original music and songs for multiple episodes of Nat Geo’s Emmy-winning docuseries “Life Below Zero: First Alaskans,” and were asked by the BBC to provide more music for the popular show. The weekly series follows new Alaska Natives using the techniques and methods passed down through the generations, as they try to thrive and survive in the brutal Alaskan environments, with the challenges presented by today’s climate change. Pamyua also
performed and co-wrote the theme to the popular PBS children’s show “Molly of Denali” and composed original music for Discovery Channel’s “Flying Wild Alaska.”

This fall, the band will complete the second leg of a six-state tour of the Midwest on behalf of Arts
Midwest, funded in part by the National Endowment of the Arts, and will perform at the Kennedy Center in November. Pamyua works with world-class musicians from Alaska and Denmark, and regularly travels the world sharing their unique blend of “Inuit Soul” and cultural harmony, captivating audiences wherever they perform.


The Resonance Collective was founded in 2021 as a non-profit organization that seeks to cultivate
curiosity and a sense of sacredness to the creative life of Los Angeles in an inspiring and supportive
social environment. Embracing a diversity of cultural and spiritual approaches in how society defines
“art” and “sacred,” the Resonance Collective welcomes and serves those interested in sharing spiritual
uplift through music. Led by Artistic Director Fahad Siadat, the Resonance Collective furthers this
mission through its three divisions: the Original Works program, which creates interdisciplinary,
theatrical narratives based on spiritual transformation; the Golden Thread Concert Series, which curates exceptional music from all religions and cultures; and the N.E.O. Voice Festival, which educates creative musicians interested in holistic vocal performance and writing for the voice.

Since starting in 2022, the Resonance Collective’s Golden Thread series has presented artists from
around the world, including the Philippine Madrigal Singers, Gamelan Burat Wangi, sacred Middle
Eastern artist Yuval Ron, traditional Indian raga and kirtan performer Kamini Natarajan, and many
others. In June 2022 at BroadStage, the Resonance Collective premiered The Conference of the Birds, an a capella oratorio based on the Sufi poet Attar’s classic poem, directed by André Megerdichian, with
music by Fahad Siadat and a libretto by Sholeh Wolpé. The Resonance Collective will present the
oratorio in November 2023, as part of the California Festival.

Craig S. Hyman is a music industry veteran with more than 30 years’ experience in the music and
entertainment industries. Passionate about music, with a talent for identifying emerging artists around
the world, he is CEO and Founder of Numinous Music Presents and Productions, a Los Angeles,
California and New York City based entertainment arts consulting company specializing in presenting,
programming and curating live music performances, A&R, record label operations and expertise, talent
booking, artist management, music licensing, marketing/branding, social media, artist relations, live
production and touring, full service large-scale event production and music industry consulting services.

Craig’s background encompasses almost every aspect of the music industry, from managing the A&R
department at RCA records to creating a boutique reissue record label from scratch to producing and
curating industry showcases and developing independent artists, ground-breaking world music and
performing arts presentations, publicity, and top-level marketing, merchandising and more.
Experienced in managing global multi-city tours and live concert production, Craig has represented or
consulted for artists in or from Europe, South America, Iceland, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, India,
Australia, Asia, Africa, the U.S., Hawaii, Mexico and Canada.

Some past and present Numinous Music clients include: Santana, RCA Records, Showtime, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Central Park Summerstage, MTV London & Los Angeles, The 2009
Presidential Inaugural Ball, Hosteling International Bi-Coastal Music Series, The Chris Isaak Show,
Sundance Channel, Black and White Ball, Cablevision, Ned Evett, Sia Tolno, Afro Dead, The Klezmatics,
Sahba Motallebi, Sony, Tony Bennett, AMC Channel, Heart Of Afghanistan/Fanoos Ensemble, Santa
Clarita International Film Festival and Los Angeles Global Music Festival.

A skilled producer of TV and film for broadcast and theatrical release formats, Craig has produced TV,
film and events in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Austin, Nashville, Washington D.C., San Jose, Vancouver, Toronto, Hawaii, France, Poland, Iceland & More.

Craig recently served for three years on the Board of Directors for the Center for World Music in San
Diego, California, and held the position of Chairman of Programming for the organization. Craig advised
on the Board of Directors for The Music Managers Forum (U.S. Chapter-NYC) from 2003–2010. Both are non-profit organizations. Craig has also worked successfully as a freelance music journalist.
A strong advocate for world and all music in a global community, he has been an avid music collector
and a researcher of all genres since childhood. Craig possesses that rare combination of artistic
sensibility and business know-how. A global music seeker, he is skilled at recognizing and nurturing
talent, with a passion for building bridges between cultures and communities through music and the
arts.

Underwriters & Partners

  • Cars
  • Say Magazine
  • Native Voice One
  • Pacifica Network
  • PRX
  • tdg
    wall of musical instruments